Penne with Spinach, Tomato e Gusto

We're doing a December Advent Calendar, counting down amazing local products until Christmas. Not only do all of our items make great gifts, AND you have a chance to win the whole set (check out our contest), we're working to pair a recipe with each day!

Penne with Spinach, Tomato e Gusto – Courtesy of the House of Q

Today's feature recipe uses House of Q's Premium Spice; Gusto D'Italia mix, to bring a spicy kick to this delicious

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp. butter
• ½ an onion – diced
• 4 cloves Garlic – crushed
• 1 can diced tomatoes (796 ml)
• 300 grams frozen spinach
• 1 cup half and half cream
• 1 tbsp. House of Q Gusto D’Italia (a bit more for a spicier sauce)*
• 1 tbsp. dried basil*
• About 80g penne per serving*
• *Available from Well Seasoned

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, boil 3-4 liters of salted water. Cook the pasta for 6-8 minutes but still a little under-cooked… budget about 80 grams or so per serving for a good portion.
2. While the water is coming to boil, melt the butter and soften the diced onions in a large skillet. Once soft, add the spinach, Gusto D’Italia and basil and then the tomatoes. Simmer covered for 10 minutes or so or until much of the moisture has evaporated.
3. Meanwhile, once the pasta is cooked, drain and put the pasta into the sauce mixture. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes stirring every few minutes or until any remaining excess water is absorbed by the pasta or evaporated. Check the pasta for doneness – it should be soft at this point but not mushy. Add the cream and stir to mix thoroughly.
4. To serve, place in bowls, grate some hard cheese on top like Asiago or Parmesan and serve hot!